Santa Claws

a film by

g r o o v y f i l m s . b i z

Music  by

Seth & the Art Compost

Photographed
and Edited by

J o h n  H a r t m a n

Seth & the Art Compost, out of Denver, provided me with a poem "Perambulation" that shall be used in my upcoming short film, "Devil's Eye." SETH also makes an appearance in the film, performing that very number. Returning the favor, I filmed SETH's Santa Claws, which I perceived as a satiracal piece illustrating some of the ills of commercialism and consumerism in U.S....not to mention exposing the materialism that is often associated with the birthday of Christ. For example, as a child I viewed Christmas more in light of the material gifts I would receive as opposed to celebrating the birthday of a very non-materialistic man who wore sandals and was born in a barn!

I wish to say that I love the giving spirit of St. Nicholas. Often the Western version of Santa Claus, however, is more about consuming than giving. Although initially I felt Santa Claws to be too controversial an idea to work with, I decided to do Santa Claws, because I think he makes a valid point in that we as a materialistic society need to be careful about what we ask for.

For once, while making a music video, I chanced to work with the man and the band (as opposed to just filming them perform), and I think it makes a load of difference in the final cut. Thanks SETH!

Peace, John. 7-5-09